Affiliation:
1. Grupo de Pesquisa em Química de Materiais – (GPQM) Departamento de Ciências Naturais Universidade Federal de São João del‐Rei Campus Dom Bosco, Praça Dom Helvécio, 74 São João del‐Rei MG CEP 36301‐160 Brazil
Abstract
Energy demand, global warming, environmental impacts, sustainability, and energy sources are some of the concerns faced by humanity. Quantum‐dot‐sensitized solar cells (QDSSC) are an alternative solution to addressing some of these issues, in addition to reducing the costs of producing electrical energy. However, QDSSCs present stability problems and low efficiency, less than 16%. In light of this challenge, this review aims to present the main strategies adopted to reduce energy losses that occur in each component of the solar cell, with a focus on one key component: the counter electrode (CE). The CE plays a crucial role in collecting electrons and regenerating the electrolyte, thus impacting the lifespan and efficiency of QDSSCs. As such, this review discusses the main advancements in CEs based on key materials such as metal sulfides, carbonaceous materials, and composites. The efforts related to the synthesis and application of different counter electrodes for QDSSCs are explored.
Funder
Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais
Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico
Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior
Financiadora de Estudos e Projetos